Evidence-Based, Quantitative and Qualitative Research

Quantitative research is based on statistical types of data that can be accurately counted and measured, while qualitative research is more interested in people's experiences. This type of research will:

• Describe with numerical data and statistics
• Give statistical results
• Make predictions 
• Will be objective 
• Will study randomly selected groups
• Systematically test a theory 
• Uses numbers
• Uses a survey 

Remember:
Quantity = numbers = quantitative

Based on the University of Mary's Evidence-Based Nursing LibGuide. Photo by Louis Reed on Unsplash

• Includes comparisons or quantitative methods (may mention mixed methods)
• May use words such as random or randomized, control
• May include numerous statistical tables and use statistical language as well as charts and graphics
• Data is numbers-based (not narrative based).
• May have multiple populations (ex. child and adult)
• Data from structured questionnaires or interviews

Based on NRSG-2502  “article type identification guide” and assignment documents supplied by the instructor